Tree of Heaven - Ailanthus Altissima

The Many Attributes of The Tree of HeavenThe tree of Heaven as the name suggests is attributed to its unique rapid growth towards the sky. Also, scientifically known as Ailanthus Altissima, the Tree of Heaven thrives in a variety of soils making it possible to grow anywhere. This species of tree grows in clusters as new shoots emanate from the roots. It grows straight up to heights of 80 feet and with a diameter of up to 3 feet.

Uses of the Tree of Heaven

1. Landscaping and Medicinal Uses

This exotic species of tree is widely integrated into landscaping when doing garden beautification. With its advantage of sprouting in clusters, the Tree of Heaven gives a beautiful ambiance of the garden scenery when pruned. Furthermore, it has a bark that when dried, has some uses in the medical industry, while it also produces a chemical that can be used to extract insecticides.

2. Ornamental Uses

Tree of heaven is a desirable tree in everyone’s garden for its decorative feature as a shade tree. In fact, it has a smooth greyish bark with brown twigs supporting the beautiful long and deciduous leaves. Moreover, its rapid growth qualifies them as the best candidates for windbreaks and quick shades in gardens, before waiting for the slower trees to grow.

3. Frost and Drought Resistant

Its attribute to resist both frost and drought is another added advantage. This gives it a competitive edge among other trees hence assurance of the tree survival given any weather condition. Also, the tree is preyed upon by very few pests; this is because naturally, the tree produces a toxin in its bark that inhibits the pest infestations.

Also, the tree has high seed production where it yields more than 325,000 seeds per year. This not only guarantees the rapid spread of the plant but also ensures the plant’s continuity.

It is a tall deciduous tree easily recognized by its yellowish-green flowers which appear in clusters spring to early summer. Beautiful wing -shaped fruit arrive in July and remain throughout winter. Tree of Heaven is a shade intolerant variety that is used primarily as an ornamental. Aside from shelter, this tree provides little benefit to native wildlife, so it is an ideal addition to any yard as it does not attract pests.